Caroline Bell honored as one of the ‘Parentgivers of the Year'

Beyond being unpaid for their efforts, many have had to reduce their hours at a paid job or even leave it completely to devote themselves to an older parent, a spouse or a sibling. Caregiving brings emotional rewards, but also sacrifices, including the caregiver's own physical and mental health as their needs are constantly moved to the back burner.

Locally among the 10 honorees is Caroline Bell of Anderson.

Four years ago, in the space of one month, Bell lost her job after 18 years in the corporate world due to downsizing and became a caregiver to her parents when she discovered that her mom was showing signs of dementia.

The awards were based on the psychological, social, financial and medical issues faced, challenges that have been overcome to provide care, sacrifices made, and the impact the care has had on the care recipient.

To recognize these unsung heroes and raise awareness about the challenges caregivers face, Parentgiving.com created the Parentgivers of the Year Awards. The recipients were nominated by friends, family — including their own grown children — and health professionals who have seen their devotion firsthand.